These are a few of the stories you will find in this week's printed newspaper:

State aid sought for watermaster investigation

Utility discusses future rate increases

Lassen Community College honors Disability Awareness Month

Supervisors table Herlong property sale

Local resident wins Mini Miss California pageant

Those recreating in or near the river urged to be cautious during higher flows

Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2014 — Pacific Gas and Electric Company will increase water flows for whitewater recreation in the Rock Creek Reach of the North Fork Feather River in Plumas County during two weekends, the company announced recently.

The Rock Creek Reach is the 8.3-mile portion of the North Fork of the Feather River in the Plumas National Forest between PG&E’s Rock Creek Dam and the Rock Creek Powerhouse near Storrie.

The higher flows will occur from Aug. 30 and 31 and Sept. 27 and 28. Those recreating in or near the river are encouraged to use extra caution during the increased flows. This portion of the river contains Class III, IV and V rapids, which are appropriate only for skilled paddlers. The reach is not appropriate for tubing.

Prior to the increase for Aug. 30 and 31, flows in the Rock Creek Reach will be about 210 cubic feet per second.Starting at about 6 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, PG&E will gradually increase water flows until it reaches 800 cubic feet per second, about three hours later. The flows will be held at 800 cubic feet per second until about 3 p.m. that day as flows are gradually reduced to 700 cubic feet per second.

Starting at about 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, flows will be gradually decreased until flows reach about 210 cubic feet per second later that day.

The recreational flows for the last weekend in September will have similar ramp-up rates.

The recreational flows are done in cooperation with American Whitewater and the Rock Creek-Cresta Ecological Resource Committee.

PG&E offers the following water safety tips:

•Sudden immersion in cold water can stimulate the gasp reflex, causing an involuntary inhalation of air or water. It can even trigger cardiac arrest, temporary paralysis, hypothermia and drowning. When faced with swift water, even the strongest swimmers may be easily overwhelmed.

•Many unseen obstacles can be lurking below the water’s surface. Swift water can make these obstacles even more treacherous. Guided trips for inexperienced paddlers are recommended.

•Recreating in PG&E canals and flumes is strictly prohibited. Stay out of canals and flumes, which are very dangerous due to slippery sides and fast-moving water.